A NEW 21-apartment complex has secured planning consent in Wareham town centre.

The retirement flats, which will be known as Fleur de lis Wareham, are set for the former council car park site between Pound Lane and West Street.

Renaissance Retirement, the company behind the plans, says the apartment block has been specifically designed to look like a row of terraced houses, in keeping with the surrounding area.

Nick Watkins, development director at Renaissance Retirement, said: “We are delighted that the planning committee has awarded us consent to build much-needed retirement apartments in Wareham.

“The south coast has been popular with retirees for many years, and these luxurious new properties will offer owners the perfect downsizing opportunity.”

The company’s first development was 20 miles away in Dorchester at the Prince of Wales’ flagship Poundbury site, and it is also developing luxury retirement apartments in Christchurch.

Renaissance Retirement managing director Robert Taylor said: “This is great news for Renaiss ance Retirement and people in Wareham looking to downsize. I’d like to thank our planners Tanner & Tilley and Aspire Architects, as well as the council for approving such an exciting scheme that meets the needs of local people.”

The Wareham development, within the town centre conservation area, will offer one and two-bedroom apartments.

It is anticipated that work will start on site in October, with a show home available to view from March 2015.